Feature Story

Explosion Proof Devices and the Code

There are stringent codes governing the use of electrical equipment and
components in potentially flammable atmospheres. But, let's start with a
few definitions.

Two terms that sometimes get confused are
explosion-proof and intrinsically safe. Though similar, they are not
identical. While the intent of both is to prevent ignition or explosion
of flammable atmospheres, how they go about it is handled differently.